MS TIERNEY — To ask the Assistant Treasurer (for the Minister for Employment and Trade): In relation to the seven job losses as a result of MAPAL Australia’s decision to cease production at its Ballarat factory, what assistance will the Napthine government provide workers affected by these job cuts.
ANSWER:
I am informed that:
MAPAL Australia (MAPAL) has advised the government that the closure of manufacturing operations in Ballarat is part of business restructuring which will result in the loss of seven skilled jobs.
MAPAL has confirmed that affected employees will receive full redundancy payments and an employee assistance program including out-placement services.
As part of responding to these job losses, my department has discussed with MAPAL the coordination of information sessions for affected employees with the relevant government agencies and service providers.
This includes information regarding access to retraining opportunities under the Victorian Training Guarantee, potential job matching with businesses that may be seeking additional skilled employees in Ballarat, or information on planning or starting a small business or franchise.
MAPAL has advised that they will continue to operate a distribution centre in Ballarat following this restructuring.